In 2006, wanting to find a way to support U.S. soldiers serving in Iraq, Michelle Jokinen contacted local recruiting offices for recommendations and on their advice joined a nonprofit organization called adoptaplatoon.org that supports all deployed U.S. soldiers who want assistance.
After reading up on things American soldiers need and want while they are deployed, Michelle was galvanized to organize a fund-raiser/stocking stuffer collection for U.S. soldiers. Her effort resulted in more than 103 boxes being shipped to soldiers deployed overseas in time for the 2006 holidays.
Michelle is hoping to build on the success of last year's collection and that people who helped out in 2006 will show their generosity and concern again this year.
"I know last year lots of people who helped out wanted to help again this year," Michelle wrote.
Michelle continues to deal with health problems that have plagued her for several years and her husband was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer this summer, but "even going through what we are going through doesn't compare to our heroes over in Iraq and Afghanistan," she wrote.
Michelle sent a lengthy list of items that deployed soldiers need and want. The list is too long to print in its entirety, but here are some of the items they would like and that Michelle is trying to collect to send to them: beef jerky, cookies, crackers, nuts, trail mix, gum, microwave popcorn, dried fruit, canned fruit, granola, cereal bars, sunflower seeds, instant coffee, tea bags, hot chocolate mix, juice boxes, sunscreen, lip balm, toilet paper, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, dental floss, mouthwash, laundry soap, hand sanitizer, lotion, feminine hygiene products, combs, brushes, body and foot powder, nasal spray, antacid, socks, underwear, disposable razors, dark colored pillowcases, antibacterial wipes, cooling bandanas, plain black sunglasses, beach toys, electronic games, AT&T phone cards, CD players, CDs, DVDs, books, magazines, envelopes and paper, sewing kits, small mirrors, towels, small flashlights or book lights, disposable cameras, batteries, ziplock bags, word puzzles, board games, plastic silverware and the one that touched Michelle's heart the most last year -- holiday and Christmas cards to send back home to their loved ones.
The deadline for contributing items is Nov. 16, because the boxes have to be shipped by Nov. 18 in order to arrive by the holidays. For more information about how to get involved in Michelle's effort, to make a monetary donation or to donate needed items, contact Michelle Jokinen, 668-7883 or 590-8680, or cmjokinen@charter.net.
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For 13 summers, Bill and Maxine Aten and Nancy Decker have shared their barn at Aten Place and their love of live music with residents of northwest lower Michigan and visitors to the region. This summer was the biggest season yet, with capacity crowds at nearly every show.
"Our labor of love continues to enrich our lives as well as everyone else who took the opportunity to experience an evening of music in our little venue," the group wrote. "The uniqueness of the theater is the intimacy that it provides the audience as well as the rare opportunity to have an informal evening with talented and interesting artists in a warm, friendly and relaxing atmosphere."
Now that the summer series is over, the group would like to thank everyone who attended concerts, brought "goodies" to share at intermission and helped in numerous ways throughout the short season.
The Atens and Decker wrote that this year it is especially important for them to extend their heartfelt appreciation to their friends and relatives who helped get the barn and grounds ready for the season.
"Without their help, it would have been nearly impossible for us to continue after Bill's biking accident," the group wrote. "Their contributions will be forever appreciated and remembered by us."
The trio went on the thank the Record-Eagle for publicizing concert information -- a major contributor to their success; and the performers, Jill Jack, Josh White, Jania Taylor, Mad Agnes, Robert Jones, Barbara Bailey Hutchison, Potato Moon, Chasin' Steel and Johnsmith.
"Their love for their craft and their desire to perform in our intimate venue ultimately made these concerts possible," the group wrote.
Anyone who would like to be included on a mailing list for the 2007 concert schedule, has suggestions or complaints or thinks they lost something at the barn, is encouraged to call 549-2076 or e-mail baten@centurytel.net.
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Dave Gutierrez, director of the American Red Cross regional office in West Branch, recently accepted a $2,400 donation from Glenn Wilson, president and CEO of M33 Access, a Rose City-based high-speed Internet service provider.
The donation, made in appreciation of the efforts of Red Cross volunteers, was used to restore the Red Cross' emergency response vehicle.
The West Branch office of the Red Cross serves Alpena, Alcona, Crawford, Iosco, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Sanilac and Wexford counties, and since it was refurbished, the ERV has supported disaster relief efforts in Alpena, Otsego and Ogemaw counties.
"Without this money, this vehicle would still be sitting here, unused," Gutierrez said. "We're very grateful to M33 Access ..."
For more information on how you can help the local American Red Cross, call (989) 343-1353 or toll-free (800) 691-6059.
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Four generations enjoyed the inaugural reunion of the descendents of Cecil and Marjorie Gallagher, which was held in September at Twin Lakes Park.
Donald Gallagher welcomed the 180 family members in attendance, while Douglas Gallagher led the blessing. Special mention was made of deceased family members and prayers were requested for Second Lieutenant John Trumbell, husband of Ashley Gallagher Trumbell, who had just left for a second tour of duty to Iraq.
Pictures of past generations were displayed and new and future family members were introduced, while family photos were taken by Megan Doher and videos were done by Quinn McDonald.
Plans are under way for the second family reunion, which will be held Sept. 20, 2008.
Items for this column may be sent to Northern Notes, Record-Eagle, P.O. Box 632, Traverse City, MI 49685-0632; e-mail sbeach@record-eagle.com.
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